A King in New York (1957)

A King in New York Poster

A recently-deposed "Estrovian" monarch seeks shelter in New York City, where he becomes an accidental television celebrity. Later, he's wrongly accused of being a Communist and gets caught up in subsequent HUAC hearings.

Introduction
"A King in New York" is a 1957 British comedy film directed by and starring Charlie Chaplin. This movie is marked as Chaplin's last leading role, utilizing satire to communicate his political ideas and critique McCarthy-era politics. The movie revolves around the character of King Shahdov, who, after being toppled from his kingdom, moves to New York City and finds himself embroiled in numerous confusions and misunderstandings.

Plot Summary
The plot begins with King Igor Shahdov (Charlie Chaplin), who is driven out of his nation due to a revolution. He turns over his hidden treasures to credible agents, however they run away with the cash, leaving him bad, thus he moves to New York with his Prime Minister (Oliver Johnson). Shahdov then ends up being the toast of New York City, having supper with stars while attempting to make up for his financial deficits by appearing in TV commercials for toothpastes and other different products.

Political Views and McCarthyism
The film is often kept in mind for its bold political commentary, as it touches upon the paranoia and worry of communism in 1950s America, a period known as the 'Red Scare'. Shahdov enters into contact with a child called Rupert (Michael Chaplin, Charlie Chaplin's real-life boy) who ends up being the son of a couple accused of being Communists. This becomes essential to the plot, acting as a crossway to highlight the treatment of accused communists during the era of McCarthyism.

The Satire on Modern Society
In addition to the political stance, the film accentuates the popularity and control of television as a medium. Chaplin's Shahdov bears noticeable discomfort with the fast improvement of technology and its encompassing influence on life. Further, the lure of a materialistic society is prosecuted, as Shahdov's quest for playing in commercials is depicted with sarcasm.

Crucial Reception
"A King in New York" was banned in the United States because of Chaplin's clear and biting critique of your home Un-American Activities Committee's anti-communist examinations. Still, it received a warm reception in Europe, showing the divide in how the elements of McCarthyism were perceived globally.

Conclusion
In this last leading function, Chaplin provides sharp satire and robust critique of American cultural and political life of the time with "A King in New York". In spite of the debate and initial rejection of release in the United States, the film has happened seen as a substantial piece of Chaplin's cinematic legacy, supplying an unique comment on the paranoid political climate of the 1950s. The film is not just comedic however is likewise a stark representation of the corrosive results of fear, demonstrating Chaplin's ability to mix humor with serious social commentary.

Top Cast

  • Charlie Chaplin (small)
    Charlie Chaplin
    King Shahdov
  • Maxine Audley (small)
    Maxine Audley
    Queen Irene
  • Jerry Desmonde (small)
    Jerry Desmonde
    Prime Minister Voudel
  • Oliver Johnston (small)
    Oliver Johnston
    Ambassador Jaume
  • Dawn Addams (small)
    Dawn Addams
    Ann Kay - TV Specialist
  • Sid James (small)
    Sid James
    Johnson - TV Advertiser
  • Joan Ingram
    Mona Cromwell - Hostess
  • Michael Chaplin (small)
    Michael Chaplin
    Rupert Macabee
  • John McLaren (small)
    John McLaren
    Macabee Senior
  • Phil Brown (small)
    Phil Brown
    Headmaster
  • Harry Green (small)
    Harry Green
    Lawyer